TANEGASHIMA, JAPAN / RankWire.AI / – On Tuesday, Japan successfully launched its H3 rocket, carrying the Michibiki No. 7 navigation satellite into orbit. The launch, designated as H3 Flight No. 9, took place from the Tanegashima Space Center at 4:23:31 a.m. Japan time. JAXA reported that the rocket maintained its planned trajectory throughout the entire mission. About 29 minutes after liftoff, the satellite separated and entered its designated orbit.
Known as QZS-7, Michibiki No. 7 joins Japan’s Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. This network complements the U.S. Global Positioning System, enhancing positioning, navigation, and timing services. Japan launched operational QZSS services in November 2018, with coverage extending across Japan and parts of the broader Asia-Oceania region.
The QZSS program is overseen by Japan’s Cabinet Office through the National Space Policy Secretariat. Initially, officials planned to launch QZS-7 in February 2026, but that schedule was postponed following an earlier H3 mission failure. Subsequently, JAXA scheduled a new launch attempt for Aug. 10 after completing additional preparations. Due to weather conditions, the liftoff was rescheduled for Aug. 11, resulting in a successful mission completion.
H3 achieves another successful mission after previous setbacks
This successful launch follows the loss of Michibiki No. 5 during H3 Flight No. 8 in December 2025. During that attempt, the rocket’s second-stage engine shut down before completing its second ignition, preventing QZS-5 from reaching its target orbit. JAXA examined the failure before resuming H3 launches, including a successful test mission in June 2026.
H3 Flight No. 6, launched on June 12, reached its planned orbit and also deployed several small payloads during the test phase. The H3 system serves as Japan’s primary launch vehicle, replacing the long-standing H-IIA family. JAXA collaborated with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in developing the system as part of Japan’s efforts to expand its domestic launch capabilities.
Michibiki enhances Japan’s satellite positioning infrastructure
QZSS was designed to improve satellite positioning coverage while maintaining compatibility with GPS. The constellation employs satellites in quasi-zenith and geostationary orbits, supporting positioning, navigation, timing, and augmentation services for users within its coverage area. In July, the Cabinet Office provided updated technical details concerning operations with a six-satellite setup involving QZS-7.
Japan has also outlined plans for a seven-satellite QZSS constellation within its published satellite navigation program. QZS-7 contributes to the ongoing expansion of the Michibiki network. The launch on Tuesday successfully met its immediate objectives, placing the satellite into its designated orbit. It also marked another milestone for the H3 rocket, which returned to flight in June after previous issues.